Transforming Our World

Creating the next generation of changemakers

At environmental charity Global Action Plan, we see how students flourish when given opportunities to lead environmental and social initiatives, campaign for change and take part in projects that connect their learning to real-world challenges. These experiences not only enhance their understanding of environmental and social issues, but build leadership skills, resilience and a sense of purpose.

Many young people care deeply about the planet and other people, but often believe their peers don’t feel the same; this values-perception gap can lead to disengagement or feelings of isolation. However, when students take collective action (whether that’s restoring local green spaces, campaigning for sustainable school policies or influencing decision-makers) they realise they are not alone. This fosters hope, motivation and a shared sense of responsibility.

Young people are already leading the way when it comes to environmental and social action. Through Transform Our World - our programme of work supporting youth social action in schools, funded by #iwill Fund and the National Lottery, we have seen students addressing ocean plastics, tackling inequality and organising community clean-up initiatives.

Young people are showing that when given the opportunity, they can lead movements that make a difference. Schools that encourage and support this type of learning create a culture of action, where young people think critically, engage with their communities and contribute towards a more sustainable future.

A Call to Action

If we want education to be truly transformative for people and the planet, we need to move beyond passive learning and create opportunities for young people to take the lead on issues they care about.

At Global Action Plan, we are working to make this vision a reality by developing and delivering programmes and resources to embed student-

TURN BACK TO PAGE 3 for books about sustainability led action into teaching and by amplifying the voices of schools, educators and young people who are making a difference.

Become a Young Activator Global Action Plan would like to invite young people aged 1418 to join its Young Activator Network. This is a chance to partake in opportunities outside of their school life, to get involved in changemaking and making a difference.

If you are a young person who is passionate about creating change, subscribe now to the Young Activators Network to receive regular updates and opportunities.

You will receive a monthly newsletter that: Shares opportunities to get involved and make change happen. For example, this year, our Young Activators got the chance to be judges in the IKEA x Let’s Go Zero Competition for schools.

Celebrates and showcases inspiring stories about changemaking - let us know what you are doing in your community and we can share that with the rest of the Young Activators Network.

Offers opportunities for input and feedback into ad hoc charity projects and partner opportunities. When chances to feed into plans and projects arise, we will share them with you. Lets you know when there are opportunities to volunteer with Global Action Plan or other charity partners in the sector.

Shares tips with you and ways of learning new skills (for example, campaigning and communications) via our skilled staff sharing their insights and learnings.

Be part of a growing network of young people who are passionate about creating change and tackling big issues for people and the planet.

RACHEL MALHAM Marketing Manager www.globalactionplan.org.uk www.transform-our-world.org/home/ students-page/young-activators